There is a unique time of year here in the Lowcountry when everything slows down and you know everyone at the grocery store and the corner bar. We call it the off-season, and it is one of our favorite times of the year. The off-season is generally defined as late fall through early spring. It offers a different perspective on this amazing area. It is also a time when the locals are out and about and taking advantage of some of the best restaurants, parks, golf, and beaches along the east coast.
Here are five reasons to consider visiting Hilton Head Island and Bluffton during the off-season:
- Lower prices: The off-season rates for accommodations, flights, and activities are often significantly lower than during peak season. You will find that golf and boat tour prices are lower. There is less demand and you will have more options for where you stay and what you can do. It’s a great way to try a new hotel, resort, or community. Who doesn’t love a deal?
- Fewer crowds: With fewer tourists, you will have a more peaceful and enjoyable experience, and you will not have to deal with long lines or crowds at popular attractions. For the most part, there really is no need for dinner reservations in the off-season. You are also more likely to meet the chefs that are behind the delicious menus as they have more time to come out and say hello to the people in their restaurants. It is an opportunity to play on acclaimed golf courses that are otherwise too crowded. You will be able to take your daily walks, runs, and bike rides without running into anyone. Most importantly, you can go with the flow and enjoy all the Lowcountry offers.
- Better weather: The weather in Hilton Head Island and Bluffton is generally mild and pleasant year-round, but the off-season may offer more comfortable temperatures and less humidity. While you will not have 100-degree afternoons, there are still beautiful days with sunshine, and the tepid winter temperatures offer great beach days for strolling, watching the waves, or reading a book at the water's edge. It is also a great time to rent a boat or find a boat charter to take you around and explore miles and miles of waterways. Sunrises and sunsets are always special here, but there is something extraordinary about them when the temp is just a little crisp outside.
- Special events: Many local events and festivals only take place during the off-season, so you will have the opportunity to experience unique and authentic cultural events. Chamber Restaurant Week is a special event that only takes place once a year. If you are a foodie, you will not want to miss trying new eateries or going to your old favorite. They always showcase their best foods and often times they will be serving their award-winning dishes with price-fix menus. Do you love oysters? The oyster season begins in October which means there are many oyster roasts around town that locals and visitors alike can enjoy. There isn’t anything more fun than standing around a table with a bottle of hot sauce, a lemon wedge, saltines, and fresh steaming hot oysters. Don’t forget to bring a friend who has never tried oysters. They make the experience more entertaining. Grab your oyster knife and go to town.
- More personalized service: With fewer tourists, you may receive more personalized attention and service from local businesses. This is a great opportunity to build relationships and get to know the local community. You will quickly learn where each business owner started and how they ended up here. Everyone loves to tell their story and how they will never leave this place that they call home.
If you want a taste of southern hospitality and local charm, then come experience the Lowcountry in the off-season. The rest of the year can be a lot of hustle and bustle, but the off-season gives everyone time to chat and slow down.
Click here to find out about upcoming oyster roasts. The lineup for Chamber Restaurant Week is not available yet. Stay tuned. We will make sure to keep you posted on the participating restaurants and the price-fix menus.
Posted by The Cobb Group on
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